In April of last year, the UAE cabinet introduced significant amendments to the UAE visa system, bringing simplified requirements and several benefits for both visitors and residents. These changes became effective on October 3, 2022, following approval by H.H. Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid, Vice President and Ruler of Dubai.
Tourist Visa Extension: Tourist visas are now valid for 60 days, which is an extension from the previous 30 days.
Multi-Entry 5-Year Tourist Visa: Visitors can now obtain a multi-entry 5-year tourist visa, allowing stays of up to 90 days on each visit, with a cumulative limit of 180 days within a year.
The Golden Visa program was expanded to include a broader range of eligible individuals, making it easier for residents to obtain long-term residency.
Expanded Categories: The eligibility for the Golden Visa program was extended to include public and real estate investors, as well as talented individuals in fields such as art, culture, digital technology, sports, professionals, scientists, and frontline heroes.
Investment Requirement: To secure a 10-year Golden Visa, an individual needs to invest a minimum of AED 2 million (USD 545,000) in a completed property, which can also be mortgaged through select local banks. Those who already owned a property worth AED 2 million before the rule change became effective are eligible to apply for a Golden Residence Visa.
Sponsorship: Golden Visa holders can now sponsor not only their spouse and children of any age but also domestic workers indefinitely. Previously, sons could only be sponsored if they were 18 years old. In the unfortunate event of the original Golden Residence holder’s passing, family members are permitted to remain in the UAE until the expiration of their permission length.
The Five-Year Green Visa is a residency visa that allows the holder to sponsor themselves for five years without requiring company sponsorship, and it offers benefits to their family members.
Various visas, including the one-year remote working visa, two-year real estate owner visa, and five-year retirement visa, no longer require sponsorship and can be renewed for the same duration.
Additional Changes:
Residents are now allowed to sponsor unmarried sons up to the age of 25 (previously 18) and unmarried daughters without age restrictions.
These amendments represent a significant shift in the UAE’s visa policies, offering more flexibility and opportunities for residents and visitors alike.
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